and everybody back's israel's right to defend itself. if some group were firing rockets at the united states, we would go after them so it's a question of proportionalty. but it's a question of how do you go after them. >> john: but we know long-term it doesn't help israel. however, does it strength the electability of politicians? >> i don't think it's about this, was netenyahu was in a pretty strong position any way, but it certainly helps. there tends to be a rise in support around whoever the leader of israel is. we have elections coming up very soon. and in any event this will enhance his election prospects. >> john: i agree, and it's so discouraging, and i know so much of the world is so sick of it. >> yeah. >> john: and isn't the only key to israel's long-term prosperity an independent palestinian state. >> it is. any time you step up against who -- the palestinian leader you think is being difficult, you get a worse leader. look at what we have done over the years, every stage has produced a more radical leadership. >> john: you